Intake and Output

 

Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom.”

 Reflection

A simple but important truth: the content we use to fill ourselves matters. We cannot expect to demonstrate wisdom, patience, discipline, and self-control during difficult moments if we are not regularly feeding those qualities before the moment arrives.

Officials understand preparation. We study rules, review video, discuss mechanics, maintain physical conditioning, and mentally rehearse difficult situations. What we do before the game influences what happens during the game. An official cannot wait until a controversial play occurs to begin developing patience; or wait until a coach confronts us to begin working on emotional control; or wait until the crew experiences adversity to begin learning how to communicate calmly and lead with confidence. The next impacting decision, difficult coach interaction, or pressure-filled moment on the field will reveal what has been filling our hearts all week.

If we consistently feed ourselves God's Word, we will be more prepared to lead, communicate, and serve with wisdom and humility. If we feed ourselves frustration, criticism, negativity, and distracting content, those influences may shape how we react when tension rises. But, when we feed ourselves Scripture, prayer, wisdom, encouragement, and constructive teaching, we are better prepared to respond with composure and integrity. As Proverbs 4:23 teaches: “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” Our decisions, words, reactions, and attitudes do not appear from nowhere. They flow from what has been developing within us.

1. What are you regularly feeding your mind and spirit?
2. Is your daily intake helping you grow in wisdom, patience, and humility?
3. Am I as intentional about feeding my spirit as I am about studying the rule book?

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for providing what we need to grow in wisdom. Your Word nourishes our hearts and guides our decisions. Help us to be intentional about what we allow into our minds and spirits each day.

 Lord, as officials, we face pressure, criticism, and uncertainty. Help us draw from the truth You have placed within us rather than reacting out of frustration or pride. Fill us with patience when tensions rise, humility when we make mistakes, courage when difficult decisions must be made, and grace in every interaction.

 Give us the discipline to spend time in Your Word, the wisdom to learn from others, and the desire to continually become better servants, crewmates, and officials. May our preparation extend beyond the rule book and into our hearts. Let our character, integrity, and conduct reflect You both on and off the field We ask these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

“Under pressure, we usually draw from what we have already placed inside ourselves.